After relocating one of our yachts to Dunstaffnage Marina, we were keen to explore day sailing options. These are just a few of the stunning places we explored.
(Dunstaffnage Marina Berth © Edinburgh Boat Charters) (Aerial view of Dunstaffnage Marina © Edinburgh Boat Charters)
North - Dallens BayAfter leaving Dunstaffnage Marina and sailing out into the Firth of Lorn, you cannot help being impressed by the panorama of mountains that surround you. Sailing up the Southeast shore of Lismore Island we passed Port Appin, where you can stop for lunch at The Pierhouse Restaurant. We continued on past Castle Stalker before following a buoyed channel to the East of Shuna Island which opens out into Dallens Bay. This is a gorgeous anchorage with stunning views. We tendered ashore with a picnic lunch and walked along the coast to the castle before sailing back. A great destination for our first day sail, and we couldn’t wait to get back out.
(Dallens Bay Anchorage © Edinburgh Boat Charters) (Castle Stalker from mainland © Edinburgh Boat Charters)
South – PuilladobhrainHeading South from Dunstaffnage we sailed between the island of Kerrera and Oban itself. Passing Dunollie Castle, you enter a narrow channel and have to keep a lookout for the big Calmac ferries which share the same route. The sail down Kerrera Sound is very picturesque and Oban looks fantastic from the sea with McCaig’s Tower standing atop.
(Passing Oban and Calmac Ferry © Edinburgh Boat Charters)
Leaving the Sound of Kerrera we sailed south for Puilladobhrain which is an inlet at the North end of Seil Island. After finding a good spot to anchor we tendered ashore and took a walk to Clachan Seil, a small village which is known for the Bridge over the Atlantic. This is an impressive stone bridge built in 1793 and definitely worth a visit. After exploring the area and having lunch at the Tigh An Truish Hotel we made our way back to the boat.
(Bridge over the Atlantic © Edinburgh Boat Charters) (Puilladobhrain Anchorage © Edinburgh Boat Charters)
We took a slightly different route back sailing West of Kerrera, passing Gylen Castle en route. This route has uninterrupted views of Mull which gave us the inspiration for our next trip.
West – TobermorySailing West from Dunstaffnage we crossed the Firth of Lorn, routed South of Lismore Island and passed Duart Castle before entering the Sound of Mull. We stopped for lunch at Lochaline and discovered The Whitehouse Restaurant, taking note that this would be another option for a fantastic day sail.
(Lochaline Pontoons © Edinburgh Boat Charters) (View across Firth of Lorn @ Edinburgh Boat Charters)
After lunch we set sail towards Tobermory and after an enjoyable afternoon sail we berthed in the extremely picturesque harbour. We then spent a bit of time exploring before enjoying dinner and a couple of pints in the famous “Mishnish”.
(Tobermory Harbour © Edinburgh Boat Charters)
The next day we had a leisurely start and then sailed back down the Sound of Mull and across the Firth of Lorn to Dunstaffnage, touching 10kts at some points with a steady breeze and a following tide. It was fantastic being able to get further afield and stay overnight in such a stunning place. It’s safe to say that after exploring these fantastic places on the West Coast, we can’t wait to get back out next season for more day trips and explore further afield to places like Jura, Coll, Skye and the Outer Hebrides.
(Inspired Capital Underway © Edinburgh Boat Charters)
Colin Henderson
Edinburgh Boat Charters